So far I've tended to cover research on this blog suggesting that general behavioural 'issues' have been correlated with increasing levels of lead (as measured in blood) over and above specific types of behaviour. Autism or autism-associated behaviours has been mentioned (see here) but more speculatively than anything else, and also in conjunction with findings reporting an increased biological lead load (see here) at least for some on the spectrum.

The paper by Kyoung-Nam Kim and colleagues [2] brings autism or rather autistic traits, more squarely into the frame with lead in mind as a result of their findings: "Blood lead concentrations at 7–8 years of age (geometric mean: 1.64 μg/dL), but not at 9–10 and 11–12 years of age, were associated with more autistic behaviors at 11–12 years of age."

Looking at nearly 2500 South Korean children aged 7-8 years old (South Korea eh?), researchers measured blood lead levels and 'autistic behaviours' every 2 years until children reached 11-12 years old. The Autism Spectrum Screening Questionnaire (ASSQ) and Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS) were the tools of choice for assessing autism-related signs and symptoms. The results as I've just mentioned suggested that there might be some important *correlation* between blood lead levels at 7-8 years and offspring outcomes at 11-12 years. Indeed: "Even low blood lead concentrations at 7–8 years of age are associated with more autistic behaviors at 11–12 years of age, underscoring the need for continued efforts to reduce lead exposure."

OK, one has to be a little cautious about making too much of when one variable (blood lead level) is correlated with another (autistic traits) over the course of quite a long time. Set within the idea that there may be literally thousands of factors influencing the presentation of autism or autistic traits (or some of its important comorbidity), to pin everything just on lead is perhaps taking things a little too far. That other groups in other parts of the world have not noted any significant association between lead levels and autism [diagnosed autism] is also something else to mention (see here).

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Questioning Answers

About Me

I have been involved in autism research for more years than I care to remember. My Questioning Answers blog (http://questioning-answers.blogspot.com/) is a place to describe and discuss various research into autism spectrum and related conditions. My Gutness Gracious Me blog (http://gutness-gracious-me.blogspot.com/) is for discussions on various gastrointestinal research. I make no recommendations, I am not giving any medical advice, I am not formulating any specific opinions and do not want to get into any ethical, political or religious debates. I am not trying to change anyone's opinions, views, beliefs or anything else. These are purely blogs about science and research in autism and a few other interesting things. Any posts I make are my own opinions and not reflective of any organisation I am affiliated to. Keep in mind that science deals with probabilities not absolutes.

ABOUT AUTISM SPECTRUM CONDITIONS

Autism or autism spectrum conditions describe several presentations characterised by core issues with social affect and stereotyped or repetitive actions. Diagnosis is made by observation and analysis of developmental history. These are heterogeneous conditions which can carry various co-morbidities and whilst described as life-long are affected by age and maturation. Autism means different things to different people. To some it means a need for life-long support. To others it is part of the varied tapestry of humanity. To all it means a need to foster a welcoming society with appropriate support and opportunities.